5 ways to manage back pain

Back pain

Most back pain will ease in a few days to a few weeks. Low back pain is classified as acute (or short term) and chronic (lasts longer than 3 months)

If the pain lasts longer than 3 months or gets worse, it is advisable to see your doctor.

Tips to help you live with and manage back pain

1. Using hot and cold therapies

Cold therapy (applied via an ice pack) works better for inflammation and helps to reduce swelling, while heat (via a hot water bottle or heating pad) is ideal for reducing tension, cramping, and muscle spasms. Regular physical activity.

2. Balancing activity with rest

Too much rest can worsen certain types of back pain and decrease muscle strength. Strengthening and stretching the muscles may actually reduce or eliminate many types of back pain.

If you spend most of your day sitting (especially for office workers) it’s important to stand up and stretch backward throughout the day. Avoid excessive repetitive movements

3. Maintaining a healthy weight

Being overweight, especially in the mid-section, shifts your entire center of gravity forward and puts additional strain on your spine. Over time, the spine can become tilted and develop an unnatural curvature.

4.Using assistive devices

Assistive devices are external devices that are designed, made, or adapted to assist a person to perform a particular task. They include wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, canes, crutches etc.

If you have a spine condition that impacts your ability to walk or have recently undergone spine surgery, using a cane or walker may help you maintain your independence.

Canes and walkers are simple in design, but they come with big benefits: They improve your balance, prevent falls, and take pressure off your back.

5. Medication

There are numerous medications available to help you manage back pain. Taking pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medicines can help alleviate back pain.

Pain medication can be over-the-counter medications that are not too strong or prescription medications to deal with chronic back pain.

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